Last two posts put together.....

As the mythology of dragons in both cultures became shared through world travel, the line between the two images blurred, so that some Western representations, now show a definite eastern influence.

Today, the popularity of science fiction, and such role-playing games as Dungeons and Dragons, means that dragon figurines are a hot commodity. From pewter or other metal game pieces, to wood carvings, Chinese jade and crystal, the dragon has become a symbol of magic and mystery, a tangible piece of other worlds, that can be held in our hand, and admired for the exquisite craftsmanship put into every piece. Whether they are hand cast pottery, or hand-blown glass, dragon figurines add a splash of brilliance to a desktop, bookcase, or display pedestal, where they can rule over their kingdom.

Notable Dragons

• The Tarasque dragon-like monster of Tarascon, France, was charmed and led back into the city by St. Martha, where he was stoned to death by the people.
• Dragonroot, also known as Jack-in-the-pulpit. Used for medicinal purposes, but only after the root is dried. Taken internally while fresh it causes death by gastroenteritis.
• Leviathan, a biblical creature who has wrapped his body around the Earth, and holds its tail in its mouth, lest the Earth fall apart.